Describe how the nominee evaluates the effectiveness of technology in the learning process. (250 word limit.)
When Nancy saw a smart board demonstration for the first time she said, “That’s cool.” But her next thought is what differentiates Nancy from others using technology. She said, “The kids can do this . . ., the kids can do that. . . .” She immediately understood how an interactive board would engage students and help them learn. She is a gifted teacher with vision to transform teaching by designing creative learning opportunities using technology. Nancy knows that students write, speak, act and create with less inhibition, challenge themselves and are more willing to take risks when using technology. With each new technology Nancy is able to apply it to student achievement. Working interactively at the board, students demonstrate their learning. When students are manipulating flipcharts she created or “playing” games on websites, Nancy is able to conduct formative assessments. In an immersion classroom, Nancy uses technology to assess student understanding and learning. Because Nancy is an experienced and skilled teacher who knows how to design instruction for optimal learning, she is able to determine the effectiveness of technology. Managing curriculum for five grades she knows how to choose technology for instruction and assessment. As you saw in the video of Nancy, she uses a variety of technology from crayons and paper to an iPad.
When Nancy saw a smart board demonstration for the first time she said, “That’s cool.” But her next thought is what differentiates Nancy from others using technology. She said, “The kids can do this . . ., the kids can do that. . . .” She immediately understood how an interactive board would engage students and help them learn. She is a gifted teacher with vision to transform teaching by designing creative learning opportunities using technology. Nancy knows that students write, speak, act and create with less inhibition, challenge themselves and are more willing to take risks when using technology. With each new technology Nancy is able to apply it to student achievement. Working interactively at the board, students demonstrate their learning. When students are manipulating flipcharts she created or “playing” games on websites, Nancy is able to conduct formative assessments. In an immersion classroom, Nancy uses technology to assess student understanding and learning. Because Nancy is an experienced and skilled teacher who knows how to design instruction for optimal learning, she is able to determine the effectiveness of technology. Managing curriculum for five grades she knows how to choose technology for instruction and assessment. As you saw in the video of Nancy, she uses a variety of technology from crayons and paper to an iPad.